Heavenly Bach: Arias & Cantatas of J.S. Bach

Though her repertoire is rather versatile, taking in the works of , , and contemporary composers such as , soprano has established herself as a Baroque specialist since arriving on the scene. Following up on her thematic solo debut, , which featured opera arias by , and teaming once more with the same backing forces of and its director sets her sights on the role of the soprano in 's cantata music with . Though these forces have spent considerable time together, they don't quite fully synch up in the opening until the concluding (and extremely fun) Alleluja! This is a shame because , trumpet soloist , and all sound in good form but seemed unable to fully bring it together. and company are in lockstep on the rest of the program, especially in the , delivering a highly dramatic and emotional reading, which also features a showcase turn from oboist . There is no doubting the vocal ability, and agility, of nor the quality of ensemble playing from (even over personnel changes between recording dates that span over five years). A lovely program, though a little on the short side at under 50 minutes, that perhaps could have benefited from the inclusion of a few more single excerpts from 's vast cantata output. Recommended to those with even a cursory interest in Baroque vocal music and the unique sound of period instruments. ~ Keith Finke